Saint
Nikon of Optina
Venerable Nikon, the Confessor of Optina († 1931)
New Calendar June 25 Old Calendar July 8
Why they are a saint
Saint Nikon was born on September 26, 1888, the son of Metrophanes and Vera Belyaev, and was named Nicholas at his Baptism. The Orthodox Church commemorates Nikon of Optina on June 25.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Nikon of Optina as a patron when they bear the name Nikon at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on June 25. As a monastic, he is also asked for help in prayer, fasting, and repentance.
Prayer
O holy Nikon of Optina, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.